Rotary Club cancels annual Canada Day parade; President says she expects organization will be back for July 1, 2014

Rotary Club cancels annual Canada Day parade; President says she expects organization will be back for July 1, 2014– Image 1

EMC Events - The annual Merrickville Community Garage Sale attracted hundreds of residents and visitors to the village's downtown area, where shoppers picked up some bargain-filled sidewalk finds. They were also able to help out different charities in the area along the way. Here, shoppers take a look at some of the items placed by the Millers of Merrickville Country Store.

The Rotary Club of Kemptville, regretfully, will not be able to host the Canada Day Parade this July.

A May 6 press release from the Rotary Club stated, "The Rotary Club of Kemptville regrets to announce the cancellation of this year's Rotary Canada Day Parade due in large part to current club commitments both in the community and abroad."

The club has organized the parade for many years and has brought joy to children and families in this community.

A press release from the president of the Rotary Club of Kemptville, Anna Van Adrichem-Rochon stated, "A significant number

of members of the Rotary Club of Kemptville are participating in a European exchange toward the end of June. Most are staying on afterwards for personal travel and others are staying away to attend our international conference in Lisbon."

Making the situation even more difficult is that the chair of the parade committee, due to health concerns, will not be able to participate.

"The organizing of a worthy parade for Canada Day is a major undertaking. Many volunteers are required to make the event safe, enjoyable, and well organized," stated Adrichem-Rochon.

Despite the announcement, the Rotary Club of Kemptville plans to be back at organizing the Canada Day parade in 2014.

"We wish to thank those companies and organizations who have participated with us in the past and we hope that parade entrants and spectators alike will be with us in the future."

"It is our intent to plan the parade for July 1, 2014 to coincide with the Municipality of North Grenville's Canada Day festivities."

"The Rotary Club of Kemptville does apologize for the disappointment but trust that all will raise a flag and enjoy a safe and happy Canada Day," their press release stated.